Mansfield Town forward James Gale has completed a move to National League play-off finalists Solihull Moors, joining for the entirety of the 2024/25 campaign.
The 22-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in League Two last season but has been loaned out by Nigel Clough to earn regular first-team football in the National League.
Following yesterday’s signing of Bradley Stevenson, Gale will become Solihull’s sixth summer signing, as Andy Whing’s men prepare to bounce back after a double Wembley heartbreak last season.
How did Gale fare for Mansfield last season?
Gale has made 48 first-team appearances for Mansfield Town since turning professional, with 26 of them arriving during the 2023/24 campaign alone.
During that time, Gale contributed to five goals which included a brace during a 3-2 victory against Grant McCann’s Doncaster Rovers in the EFL Trophy back in October.
He featured in seven of Mansfield’s final ten league games, helping the club to confirm their promotion into League One, including a start during a victory against Gillingham.
Agent Clarkey?
Solihull Moors’ successful relationship with Mansfield Town has appeared to have continued with Gale’s arrival (as confirmed via social media), much to the potential delight of popular defender James Clarke.
Clarke originally signed for Solihull on loan from Mansfield, before turning the deal into a permanent one and has since established himself as a firm fan favourite, making an eye-catching 11 goal-line clearances during the previous campaign.
Will a move to Solihull benefit Gale’s development?
As stated, Solihull have a successful history when it comes to developing young talent, as proven by Clarke which may explain why Andy Whing’s side have landed the Mansfield forward instead of a rival side.
With forward Mark Beck transfer listed amongst interest from Hartlepool and Connor Hall being sold to Brackley Town, Solihull are left with Tahvon Campbell as their only first-team striker heading into pre-season.
A lack of competition is likely to provide Gale with an increased exposure to regular first-team football at Solihull Moors, which will in turn allow the striker to improve within his abilities and make him a better player.